Fibocom Wireless NL668AM01 User Manual

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Page 1

FIBOCOM NL668-AM Hardware

User Manual

Version: V1.0.1

Date: 2018-11-13

FIBOCOM NL668-AM Hardware User Manual Page 1 of 62

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Applicability type

No. Product model Description

NL668-AM-00

NL668-AM-01

MCP is 4+2, and supports MAIN_ANT, DIV_ANT, GNSS_ANT

Based on NL668-AM-00 delete Band 71

FIBOCOM NL668-AM Hardware User Manual Page 2 of 62

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Without the prior written permission of the copyright holder, any company or individual is prohibited to

excerpt, copy any part of or the entire document, or transmit the document in any form.

Attention

The document is subject to update from time to time owing to the product version upgrade or other

reasons. Unless otherwise specified, the document only serves as the user guide. All the statements,

information and suggestions contained in the document do not constitute any explicit or implicit

guarantee.

Trademark

The trademark is registered and owned by Fibocom Wireless Inc.

Versions

Version Author Assessor Approver

V1.0.0

V1.0.1

Gaoying Chenguojiang Tumin

Update

Date

2018-10-26 Initial version

2018-11-13 Add Band 17

Description

FIBOCOM NL668-AM Hardware User Manual Page 3 of 62

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Contents

1 Foreword ....................................................................................................................... 9

1.1

1.2

1.3

1.4

1.5 Federal Communication Commission Interference Statement..................................... 11

Introduction ................................................................................................................... 9

Safety Instruction .......................................................................................................... 9

Reference Standards .................................................................................................. 10

Related Document ...................................................................................................... 11

2 Product Overview ....................................................................................................... 13

2.1

2.2

2.3

Product Introduction ................................................................................................... 13

Product Specifications ................................................................................................ 13

Hardware Diagram ..................................................................................................... 14

3 Application Interface .................................................................................................. 16

3.1

LCC Interface ............................................................................................................. 16

3.1.1 Pin distribution ............................................................................................................... 16

3.1.2 Pin definition .................................................................................................................. 17

3.2 Power Supply ............................................................................................................. 22

3.2.1 Power supply ................................................................................................................. 23

3.2.2 1.8V Output ................................................................................................................... 24

3.2.3 Power consumption....................................................................................................... 24

3.3

3.4

3.5

Control Signal ............................................................................................................. 25

3.3.1 Module power on ........................................................................................................... 26

3.3.2 Module power off ........................................................................................................... 27

3.3.3 Module reset ................................................................................................................. 28

USB Interface ............................................................................................................. 30

3.4.1 USB interface definition ................................................................................................ 30

USIM Interface ........................................................................................................... 31

3.5.1 USIM pin ........................................................................................................................ 31

3.5.2 USIM interface circuit .................................................................................................... 31

3.5.3 USIM hot plug ............................................................................................................... 33

3.5.4 USIM design requirements ........................................................................................... 34

3.6

3.7

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UART Interface ........................................................................................................... 34

3.6.1 UART interface definition .............................................................................................. 34

3.6.2 UART port application ................................................................................................... 35

Status Indicator ........................................................................................................... 36

Page 5

3.7.1 NET_MODE Signal ....................................................................................................... 36

3.8

3.9

Low Power Mode ........................................................................................................ 37

3.8.1 Flight mode.................................................................................................................... 37

3.8.2 Sleep Mode ................................................................................................................... 38

Digital audio interface PCM ........................................................................................ 40

3.9.1 Support model ............................................................................................................... 40

3.9.2 PCM interface definition ................................................................................................ 40

3.9.3 PCM interface description ............................................................................................. 40

3.9.4 PCM signal description ................................................................................................. 41

3.10 ADC function .............................................................................................................. 42

4 RF Interface................................................................................................................. 43

4.1

4.2 RF Output Power of NL668-AM .................................................................................. 43

4.3

4.4

NL668-AM Operating Frequency ................................................................................ 43

RF Receiving Sensitivity of NL668-AM ....................................................................... 44

GNSS Receiver .......................................................................................................... 44

4.4.1 Basic description ........................................................................................................... 44

4.5

4.6

RF PCB Design .......................................................................................................... 45

4.5.1 Antenna RF connector .................................................................................................. 45

Antenna Design .......................................................................................................... 46

5 Electrical Characteristics .......................................................................................... 49

5.1

5.2

5.3

5.4

5.5

Limiting voltage range................................................................................................. 49

Environment temperature range ................................................................................. 49

Electrical characteristics of the interface in operating status ....................................... 49

Environmental reliability requirements ........................................................................ 50

ESD characteristics .................................................................................................... 51

6 Structure Specification .............................................................................................. 52

6.1

6.2

6.3

Product Appearance ................................................................................................... 52

Dimension of Structure ............................................................................................... 53

SMT Patch .................................................................................................................. 53

Appendix A Terms and Acronyms ................................................................................... 54

Appendix B ADP & MiniPCIe RF ports trace………………………………………………... 57

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Figure

Figure 2-1 Hardware Diagram ............................................................................................................ 15

Figure 3-1 Pin Distribution Diagram(TOP plan perspective diagram) ................................................ 16

Figure 3-2 Power Design .................................................................................................................... 23

Figure 3-3 Power Limit ........................................................................................................................ 24

Figure 3-4 OC/OD Drive Power on Reference Circuit ........................................................................ 26

Figure 3-5 Button Power on Reference Circuit ................................................................................... 26

Figure 3-6 Power on Timing Control Diagram .................................................................................... 27

Figure 3-7 Power off Timing Control Diagram .................................................................................... 28

Figure 3-8 RESET_N OC/OD Drive Reference Circuit ...................................................................... 29

Figure 3-9 RESET_N Button Reference Circuit ................................................................................. 29

Figure 3-10 Reset Control Timing ....................................................................................................... 29

Figure 3-11 SIM Card Slot Diagram SIM016-8P-220P ....................................................................... 32

Figure 3-12 USIM/SIM Interface with Detection Signal Reference Design ........................................ 32

Figure 3-13 USIM/SIM Interface without Detection Signal Reference Design Diagram .................... 33

Figure 3-14 UART Level Translate Reference Circuit 1 ..................................................................... 35

Figure 3-15 UART Level Translate Reference Circuit 2 ..................................................................... 36

Figure 3-16 NET_MODE Reference Design Diagram........................................................................ 37

Figure 3-17 PCM_SYNC Timing ......................................................................................................... 41

Figure 3-18 PCM_CODEC to NL668-AM Timing ............................................................................... 41

Figure 3-19 NL668-AM to PCM_CODEC Timing ............................................................................... 41

Figure 3-20 CODEC Timing Parameters ............................................................................................ 42

Figure 4-1RF Reference Circuit Design ............................................................................................. 45

Figure 4-2 GNSS RF Reference Circuit ............................................................................................. 46

Figure 6-1Module Product Appearance (Top) .................................................................................... 52

Figure 6-2 Module Product Appearance (Bottom) .............................................................................. 52

Figure 6-3 Dimension of Structure (Unit: mm) .................................................................................... 53

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Table

Table 2-1 Product Specifications......................................................................................................... 14

Table 3-1 Pin Definitions ..................................................................................................................... 22

Table 3-2 Power Interfaces ................................................................................................................. 22

Table 3-3 Power Filter Capacitor Design ............................................................................................ 23

Table 3-4 VDD_EXT Logic Level ........................................................................................................ 24

Table 3-5 Power Consumption ............................................................................................................ 25

Table 3-6 Control Signal...................................................................................................................... 26

Table 3-7 Power Off Modes ................................................................................................................ 27

Table 3-8 Module Reset ...................................................................................................................... 28

Table 3-9 USB Interface Definition ..................................................................................................... 30

Table 3-10 SIM Card Pin ..................................................................................................................... 31

Table 3-11SIM Card Hot Plug Function Configured AT Commands ................................................... 33

Table 3-12 USIM_PRESENCE Effective Level Switched AT command ............................................. 34

Table 3-13 Main Serial Port Pin .......................................................................................................... 35

Table 3-14 Debug Serial Port Pin ....................................................................................................... 35

Table 3-15 Network Indication pins ..................................................................................................... 36

Table 3-16 Network Indicator Status Description ................................................................................ 37

Table 3-17 W_DISABLE# Pin Description .......................................................................................... 37

Table 3-18 Module enter Fly Mode ..................................................................................................... 37

Table 3-19 Support model ................................................................................................................... 40

Table 3-20 PCM Interface Definition ................................................................................................... 40

Table 3-21 PCM Interface Description ................................................................................................ 40

Table 3-22 ADC Interface .................................................................................................................... 42

Table 4-1Operating Frequency ........................................................................................................... 43

Table 4-2 RF Output Power ................................................................................................................ 43

Table 4-3 RF Receiving Sensitivity ..................................................................................................... 44

Table 4-4 GNSS Receiver ................................................................................................................... 45

Table 4-5 Main Antenna Requirement ................................................................................................ 48

Table 5-1 Voltage Range ..................................................................................................................... 49

Table 5-2Environment Temperature Range ........................................................................................ 49

Table 5-3 Electrical Characteristics of the Interface in Operating Status ........................................... 50

Table 5-4 Environmental Reliability Requirements ............................................................................. 50

Table 5-5 ESD Allowable Discharge Range ....................................................................................... 51

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Table A-0-1 Terms and Acronyms ....................................................................................................... 56

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1 Foreword

1.1 Introduction

This document describes the electrical characteristics, RF performance, structure size, application

environment, etc. of NL668-AM module. With the assistance of the document and other instructions, the

developers can quickly understand the hardware functions of the NL668-AM module and develop

products.

1.2 Safety Instruction

By following the safety guidelines below, you can ensure your personal safety and help protect the

product and work environment from potential damage. Product manufacturers need to communicate the

following safety instructions to end users. In case of failure to comply with these safety rules, Fibocom will

not be responsible for the consequences caused by the user’s misuse.

Road safety first! When you drive, do not use the handheld devices even if it has a

hand-free feature. Please stop and call.

Please turn off the mobile device before boarding. The wireless feature of the mobile

device is not allowed on the aircraft to prevent interference with the aircraft communication

system. Ignoring this note may result in flight safety issue or even breaking the law.

When in a hospital or health care facility, please be aware of restrictions on the use

of mobile devices. Radio frequency interference may cause medical equipment to

malfunction, so it may be necessary to turn off the mobile device.

The mobile device does not guarantee that an effective connection can be made under

any circumstances, for example, when there is no prepayment for the mobile device or the

SIM is invalid. When you encounter the above situation in an emergency, remember to use

an emergency call, while keeping your device turned on and in areas where signal is

strong.

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Your mobile device receives and transmits RF signals when it is powered on. Radio

interference occurs when it is near televisions, radios, computers, or other electronic

devices.

Keep the mobile device away from flammable gases. Turn off the mobile device when

near gas stations, oil depots, chemical plants or explosive workplaces. There is a safety

hazard in operating electronic equipment in any potentially explosive environment.

1.3 Reference Standards

This design of the product complies with the following standards:

 3GPP TS 51.010-1 V10.5.0: Mobile Station (MS) conformance specification; Part 1:

Conformance specification

 3GPP TS 34.121-1 V10.8.0: User Equipment (UE) conformance specification; Radio

transmission and reception (FDD); Part 1: Conformance specification

 3GPP TS 34.122 V10.1.0: Technical Specification Group Radio Access Network; Radio

transmission and reception (TDD)

 3GPP TS 36.521-1 V10.6.0: User Equipment (UE) conformance specification; Radio

transmission and reception; Part 1: Conformance testing

 3GPP TS 21.111 V10.0.0: USIM and IC card requirements

 3GPP TS 51.011 V4.15.0: Specification of the Subscriber Identity Module -Mobile Equipment

(SIM-ME) interface

 3GPP TS 31.102 V10.11.0: Characteristics of the Universal Subscriber Identity Module (USIM)

application

 3GPP TS 31.11 V10.16.0: Universal Subscriber Identity Module (USIM) Application

Toolkit(USAT)

 3GPP TS 36.124 V10.3.0: Electro Magnetic Compatibility (EMC) requirements for mobile

terminals and ancillary equipment

 3GPP TS 27.007 V10.0.8: AT command set for User Equipment (UE)

 3GPP TS 27.005 V10.0.1: Use of Data Terminal Equipment - Data Circuit terminating Equipment

(DTE - DCE) interface for Short Message Service (SMS) and Cell Broadcast Service (CBS)

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1.4 Related Document

 FIBOCOM_RF Antenna Application Design Instruction

 FIBOCOM_ADP-NL668 Evaluation board instruction

 FIBOCOM_NL668 AT Command Manual

 FIBOCOM_EVK-GT8230-NL User Manual

 FIBOCOM_ NL668 LCC SMT Application Design Instruction

1.5 Federal Communication Commission Interference Statement

FCC Regulations:

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference

received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device , pursuant to

Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful

interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiated radio frequency

energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference

to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular

installation If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can

be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the

interference by one or more of the following measures:

-Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

-Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

-Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

-Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Caution: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could

void the user‘s authority to operate the equipment.

RF Exposure Information:

This device complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. In

order to avoid the possibility of exceeding the FCC radio frequency exposure limits, human proximity to

the antenna shall not be less than 20cm (8 inches) during normal operation.

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IMPORTANT NOTE :

This module is intended for OEM integrator. The OEM integrator is still responsible for the FCC

compliance requirement of the end product, which integrates this module. 20cm minimum distance has to

be able to be maintained between the antenna and the users for the host this module is integrated into.

Under such configuration, the FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an population/uncontrolled

environment can be satisfied.

Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user's authority

to operate this equipment.

USERS MANUAL OF THE END PRODUCT :

In the user manual of the end product, the end user has to be informed to keep at least 20cm separation

with the antenna while this end product is installed and operated. The end user has to be informed that

the FCC radio-frequency exposure guidelines for an uncontrolled environment can be satisfied. The end

user has to also be informed that any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the

manufacturer could void the user's authority to operate this equipment. If the size of the end product is

smaller than 8x10cm, then additional FCC part 15.19 statement is required to be available in the users

manual: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two

conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference and (2) this device must accept any

interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

LABEL OF THE END PRODUCT :

The final end product must be labeled in a visible area with the following " Contains Transmitter Module

FCC ID: ZMONL668AM01". If the size of the end product is larger than 8x10cm, then the following FCC

part 15.19 statement has to also be available on the label: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules.

Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference

and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause

undesired operation.

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2 Product Overview

2.1 Product Introduction

The NL668-AM wireless module is a wideband wireless terminal product applicable to various network

formats and multi-bands including FDD-LTE/UMTS.

2.2 Product Specifications

Specification

LTE FDD: Band 2,4,5,12,13,17,66,71

NL668-AM-00

Operating

WCDMA: Band 2,4,5

frequency

Data

transmission

Power

Temperature

Power

consumption

Physical

characteristics

LTE FDD: Band 2,4,5,12,13,17,66

NL668-AM-01

WCDMA: Band 2,4,5

150Mbps DL/50Mbps UL(Cat 4); LTE Downlink MIMO 2x2,

LTE FDD Rel.9

4x2

WCDMA:384 kbps DL/384 kbps UL

WCDMA Rel.8

DC-HSDPA+:42Mbps (Cat 24)/HSUPA:5.76Mbps (Cat 6)

3.3V～4.3V (3.8V recommended)

Normal: -30°C～+75°C

Extended: -40°C～+85°C

Storage: -40°C～+85°C

Base current: <1.5mA

Sleep mode: ≤3mA

Idle mode: <20mA

Package: LCC 144PIN

Size: 32.0×29.0×2.4 mm

Weight: About 5.5g

Interface

Antenna

Functional

FIBOCOM NL668-AM Hardware User Manual Page 13 of 62

Antenna: Main x 1, GNSS x 1, DIV x 1

USIM 3.0V/1.8V

Page 14

Interface

Software

Protocol Stack

AT Command 3GPP TS 27.007 and 27.005, and proprietary FIBOCOM AT

Firmware update USB(UART does not support DOWNLOAD)

Voice service

SMS

MMS service

Note:

USB 2.0 x 1

UART, PCM, I2C, SGMII, SDIO, GPIO, SPI

System Indicator

ADC

Embedded TCP/IP and UDP/IP protocol stack

VoLTE, HR, FR, EFR, AMR, DTMF, Caller ID, Call Transfer, Call Hold, Call Waiting

and Multi-Talk, etc.

point-to-point MO, MT; cell broadcast; support Text and PDU modes

Need AP to realize MMS protocol

Table 2-1 Product Specifications

When the temperature is beyond the normal operating temperature range (-30 °C to + 75 °C),

the RF performance of the module may slightly exceed the 3GPP specifications.

2.3 Hardware Diagram

Figure 2-2 hardware diagram shows the main hardware features of the NL668-AM module, including

baseband and RF features.

Baseband includes:

 UMTS/ LTE FDD controller

 PMIC

 MCP

 UART、USB、SIM、PCM、I2C、SPI、SGMII、SDIO、ADC

RF includes:

 RF Transceiver

 RF PA

 RF filter

 Antenna

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Figure 2-1 Hardware Diagram

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3 Application Interface

3.1 LCC Interface

NL668-AM module adopts LCC packaging, with a total of 144 pins.

3.1.1 Pin distribution

Figure 3-1 Pin Distribution Diagram(TOP plan perspective diagram)

Note:

“73 ~ 112” is the thermal pin, and the module is grounded internally. It is recommended that the

heat sink pad is reserved for PCB packaging and welded.

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3.1.2 Pin definition

The pin definitions are shown in the following table:

Pin Pin Name I/O Level Description

VILmin=-0.3V

1 WAKEUP_IN I

External device wake-up module

VIHmin=1.2V

VIHmax=2.0V

VILmin=-0.3V

VILmax=0.6V

2 AP_READY I

Reserved

VIHmin=1.2V

VIHmax=2.0V

3 RESERVED - Reserved

VILmin=-0.3V

VILmax=0.6V

4 W_DISABLE# I

Module flight mode control

VIHmin=1.2V

VIHmax=2.0V

VOHmin=1.35V

5 NET_MODE O

Module state indicate

VOLmax=0.45V

VOHmin=1.35V

6 NET_STATUS O

Reserved

VOLmax=0.45V

7 VDD_EXT PO 1.8V Module digital level, 1.8V output, 80mA

8 GND G - Ground

9 GND G - Ground

10 GND G - Ground

VILmin=-0.3V

VILmax=0.6V

11 DBG_RXD I

DEBUG serial port Receive data

VIHmin=1.2V

VIHmax=2.0V

VOLmax=0.45V

12 DBG_TXD O

DEBUG serial port Transmit data

VOHmin=1.35V

VILmin=-0.3V

VILmax=0.6V

13 USIM_PRESENCE I

USIM card hot plug detection

VIHmin=1.2V

VIHmax=2.0V

For 1.8V USIM:

14 USIM _VDD O

Vmax=1.9V

USIM power

Vmin=1.7V

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Pin Pin Name I/O Level Description

For 3.0V USIM:

Vmax=3.05V

Vmin=2.7V

IOmax=150mA

For 1.8V USIM:

VILmax=0.6V

VIHmin=1.2V

VOLmax=0.45V

15 USIM _DATA O

16 USIM _CLK O

17 USIM _RST O

VOHmin=1.35V

USIM data signal cable

For 3.0V USIM:

VILmax=1.0V

VIHmin=1.95V

VOLmax=0.45V

VOHmin=2.55V

For 1.8V USIM:

VOLmax=0.45V

VOHmin=1.35V

USIM clock signal cable

For3.0V USIM:

VOLmax=0.45V

VOHmin=2.55V

For 1.8V USIM:

VOLmax=0.45V

VOHmin=1.35V

USIM reset signal cable

For 3.0V USIM:

VOLmax=0.45V

VOHmin=2.55V

18 NC - - NC

19 GND G - Ground

VIHmax=2.1V

Module reset signal, active low, no

20 RESET_N I

VIHmin=1.3V

need pull up externally

VILmax=0.5V

VIHmax=2.1V

Turn on/off the module, active low, no

21 PWRKEY I

VIHmin=1.3V

need pull up externally

VILmax=0.5V

22 GND G - Ground

23 SD_INS_DET I - Reserved

24 PCM_IN I VILmin=-0.3V PCM input signal

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Pin Pin Name I/O Level Description

VILmax=0.6V

VIHmin=1.2V

VIHmax=2.0V

25 PCM_OUT O

PCM output signal

VOHmin=1.35V

VOLmax=0.45V

VOHmin=1.35V

VILmin=-0.3V

VOLmax=0.45V

26 PCM_SYNC I/O

PCM synchronization signal

VILmax=0.6V

VIHmin=1.2V

VIHmax=2.0V

VOLmax=0.45V

VOHmin=1.35V

VILmin=-0.3V

27 PCM_CLK I/O

PCM clock signal

VILmax=0.6V

VIHmin=1.2V

VIHmax=2.0V

28 SDC2_DATA3 I/O - Reserved

29 SDC2_DATA2 I/O - Reserved

30 SDC2_DATA1 I/O - Reserved

31 SDC2_DATA0 I/O - Reserved

32 SDC2_CLK O - Reserved

33 SDC2_CMD I/O - Reserved

34 VDD_SDIO PO - Reserved

35 ANT_DIV I - Diversity antenna

36 GND G - Ground

37 SPI_CS_N I - Reserved

38 SPI_MOSI I - Reserved

39 SPI_MISO O - Reserved

40 SPI_CLK O - Reserved

41 I2C_SCL OD - I2C interface clock signal

42 I2C_SDA OD - I2C interface data signal

43 NC - - NC

44 ADC1 I - Analog to digital converter interface

45 ADC0 I - Analog to digital converter interface 0

46 GND G - Ground

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Pin Pin Name I/O Level Description

47 ANT_GNSS I - GNSS antenna

48 GND G - Ground

49 ANT_MAIN I/O - Main antenna

50 GND G - Ground

51 GND G - Ground

52 GND G - Ground

53 GND G - Ground

54 GND G - Ground

55 NC - - NC

56 GND G - Ground

Vmax=4.3V

57 VBAT_RF I

58 VBAT_RF I

59 VBAT_BB I

60 VBAT_BB I

61 STATUS O

62 RI O

63 DCD O

Vmin=3.3V

Vnorm=3.8V

Vmax=4.3V

Vmin=3.3V

Vnorm=3.8V

Vmax=4.3V

Vmin=3.3V

Vnorm=3.8V

Vmax=4.3V

Vmin=3.3V

Vnorm=3.8V

VOHmin=1.35V

VOLmax=0.45V

VOHmin=1.35V

VOLmax=0.45V

VOHmin=1.35V

RF power input (3.3V~4.3V)

Baseband power input（3.3V~4.3V）

Baseband Power Input (3.3V~4.3V)

Reserved

Module output ring indicator

Module output data carrier detection

VILmin=-0.3V

VILmax=0.6V

64 CTS I

Clear to send

VIHmin=1.2V

VIHmax=2.0V

VOLmax=0.45V

65 RTS O

Request to send

VOHmin=1.35V

VILmin=-0.3V

66 DTR I

VILmax=0.6V

Data ready

VIHmin=1.2V

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Pin Pin Name I/O Level Description

VIHmax=2.0V

67 TXD O

Transmit data

VOHmin=1.35V

VILmin=-0.3V

VILmax=0.6V

VOLmax=0.45V

68 RXD I

Receive data

VIHmin=1.2V

VIHmax=2.0V

Conform to USB2.0

69 USB_DP I/O

USB differential data bus (+)

standard specification

Conform to USB2.0

70 USB_DM I/O

USB differential data bus (-)

standard specification

Vmax=5.25V

71 USB_VBUS I

Vmin=3.0V

USB plug detection

Vnorm=5.0V

72 GND G - Ground

73-112 GND G - Ground

113 NC - - NC

114 NC - - NC

VILmin=-0.3V

Emergency download

VILmax=0.6V

115 USB_BOOT I

high level active

VIHmin=1.2V

recommended to reserve test point

VIHmax=2.0V

116 NC - - NC

117 NC - - NC

118 WLAN&SDIO I/O Reserved

119 EPHY_RST_N O Reserved

120 EPHY_INT_N I Reserved

121 SGMII_MDATA I/O Reserved

122 SGMII_MCLK O Reserved

123 SGMII_TX_M O Reserved

124 SGMII_TX_P O Reserved

125 SGMII_RX_P I Reserved

126 SGMII_RX_M I Reserved

127 PM_ENABLE I Reserved

128 VREG_L5_UIM2 PO Reserved

129 SDC1_DATA_3 I/O Reserved

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Pin Pin Name I/O Level Description

130 SDC1_DATA_2 I/O Reserved

131 SDC1_DATA_1 I/O Reserved

132 SDC1_DATA_0 I/O Reserved

133 SDC1_CLK O Reserved

134 SDC1_CMD I/O Reserved

135 WAKE_WLAN I Reserved

136 WLAN_EN I Reserved

137 COEX_UART_RXD I Reserved

138 COEX_UART_TXD I/O Reserved

139 BT_EN I Reserved

140 NC - - NC

141 NC - - NC

142 NC - - NC

143 NC - - NC

144 NC - - NC

Table 3-1 Pin Definitions

Note:

Keep the unused pins floating.

Pin73~Pin112 is the module thermal pad, and the corresponding ground pad is reserved for PCB

packaging and welded.

3.2 Power Supply

The power interfaces of NL668-AM module are shown in the following table:

Pin Name I/O Pin Description

VBAT_RF I 57,58 Module power supply, 3.3~4.3V, typical value 3.8V

VBAT_BB I 59,60 Module power supply, 3.3~4.3V, typical value 3.8V

VDD_EXT O 7 Voltage Output, 1.8V, 80mA

GND -

Note:

In the rest of the document, VBAT_BB, VBAT_RF will be replaced with VBAT.

FIBOCOM NL668-AM Hardware User Manual Page 22 of 62

8,9,10,19,22,36,46,48,5

Ground

0-54,56,72-112

Table 3-2 Power Interfaces

Page 23

3.2.1 Power supply

The NL668-AM module needs to be powered by the VBAT pin. The power design is shown in Figure 3-2:

Figure 3-2 Power Design

Power filter capacitor design is shown in the following table:

Recommended capacitor Application Description

Reduce power fluctuations during

module operation, requiring low

ESR Capacitor

220uF x 2 Regulating capacitor

 LDO or DCDC power requires

not less than 440uF capacitor

 Battery power can be properly

reduced to 100 ~ 220uF capacitor

Filter clock and digital signal

1uF,100nF Digital signal noise

interference

39pF,33pF 700, 850/900 MHz bands Filter low band RF interference

1700/1800/1900,2100/2300,2500/2

Filter middle/high band RF

18pF,8.2pF,6.8pF

600MHz bands

Table 3-3 Power Filter Capacitor Design

interference

The power stability ensures the normal operation of NL668-AM module. The design requires special

attention to the power ripple below 300mV(The circuit ESR < 100mΩ). When the module is operating in

WCDMA/LTE mode (Burst transmit), the maximum operating current can reach 2A, and the power voltage

needs to be at least 3.3V. Otherwise, the module may power off or restart. The power limit is shown in

Figure 3-3:

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Figure 3-3 Power Limit

3.2.2 1.8V Output

The NL668-AM outputs a 1.8V voltage through the VDD_EXT for use of the internal digital circuit of the

module. The voltage is the logic level voltage of the module and can be used to indicate that the module is

on or off, or for external low current (<80mA) circuit. If it is not in use, keep it in floating status. The logic

level of VDD_EXT is defined as follows:

Parameter Minimum Typical Maximum Unit

VDD_EXT 1.71 1.8 1.89 V

Table 3-4 VDD_EXT Logic Level

3.2.3 Power consumption

The power consumption of NL668-AM module in the case of 3.8V power supply is shown in the following

table.

Parameter Mode Condition

off

Power off

Power supply, module power off

WCDMA DRX=8

Idle

LTE FDD Paging cycle #256 frames

Average

Typ.Current(mA)

0.015

≤20

Radio Off AT+CFUN=4

DRX=6

sleep

WCDMA

DRX=7

DRX=8

DRX=9

FIBOCOM NL668-AM Hardware User Manual Page 24 of 62

≤15

≤3

Page 25

Parameter Mode Condition

Paging cycle #64 frames

FDD-LTE

Paging cycle #128 frames

Paging cycle #256 frames

WCDMA Data transfer Band II

@+23.5dBm

WCDMA-RMS

WCDMA

WCDMA Data transfer Band IV

@+23.5dBm

WCDMA Data transfer Band V

@+23.5dBm

LTE FDD Data transfer Band 2

@+23dBm

LTE FDD Data transfer Band 4

@+23dBm

LTE FDD Data transfer Band 5

@+23dBm

LTE FDD Data transfer Band 12

@+23dBm

LTE-RMS

LTE FDD

LTE FDD Data transfer Band 13

@+23dBm

LTE FDD Data transfer Band 17

@+23dBm

LTE FDD Data transfer Band 66

@+23dBm

LTE FDD Data transfer Band 71

@+23dBm

Average

Typ.Current(mA)

≤3

≤630

≤670

≤530

≤680

≤750

≤640

≤680

≤750

≤680

Table 3-5 Power Consumption

3.3 Control Signal

The NL668-AM module provides two control signals for power on/off and reset operations. The pin

definitions are as follows.

Pin name I/O Pin Description

RESET_N I 20

PWRKEY I 21

FIBOCOM NL668-AM Hardware User Manual Page 25 of 62

When the module is in work, give it a Tst (750ms~2s) low level, and then

pull it high, the module is reset

When module is in power off mode , give it a Tst (100ms~2s) low level,

and then pull it high, the module will power on; When module is in power

Page 26

Pin name I/O Pin Description

on mode, give it a Tst (2s~8s) low level, and then pull it high, the module

will power off

Table 3-6 Control Signal

3.3.1 Module power on

3.3.1.1 power on circuit reference

When the NL668-AM module is in power off mode, the module will power on by pulling down PWRKEY for

100ms~ 2s . It is recommended to use OC/OD drive circuit to control PWRKEY pin. The reference circuit

is shown in Figure 3-4:

Figure 3-4 OC/OD Drive Power on Reference Circuit

Another method to control PWRKEY pin is to directly control through a button, and place a TVS

（recommended：ESD9X5VL-2/TR) near the button for ESD protection.

The reference circuit is shown in Figure 3-5.

Figure 3-5 Button Power on Reference Circuit

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3.3.1.2 Power on Timing

The power on timing is shown in Figure 3-6:

Figure 3-6 Power on Timing Control Diagram

Note:

Before pulling down the PWRKEY pin, make sure the VBAT voltage is stable. It is recommended

that the interval between power up VBAT and pull down PWRKEY pin should not be less than

30ms.

3.3.2 Module power off

The module supports the following three power off modes:

Power off mode Power off methods Applicable scenarios

Low-voltage power

off

Hardware power off Pull down PWRKEY (2s~ 8s) Normal power off

When VBAT voltage is low or power

down, the module will power off

The module does not power off through

normal process, i.e. does not logout

process from the base station

AT power off

AT+ CPWROFF

Software power off

Table 3-7 Power Off Modes

3.3.2.1 Power off Timing

1. When the module is working properly, do not cut off the power of the module immediately to avoid

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damaging the internal Flash . It is strongly recommended to power off the module by PWRKEY or AT

command before cut off the power supply.

2. When using the AT command to power off, make sure that the PWRKEY is in a high level state after the

power off command is executed, otherwise the module will power on again after the power off complete.

Figure 3-7 Power off Timing Control Diagram

3.3.3 Module reset

NL668-AMmodule can reset by hardware and AT command.

Reset mode Reset method

Hardware Pull down RESET_N about 750ms~2s and then pull up the level

AT command AT+RESET

Table 3-8 Module Reset

3.3.3.1 Reset circuit

Refer to Figure 3-8 reset circuit. It is similar to the PWRKEY control circuit. The client can control the

RESET_N pin using an OC/OD drive circuit or push button.

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Figure 3-8 RESET_N OC/OD Drive Reference Circuit

Another reset control is shown in Figure 3-9.

Figure 3-9 RESET_N Button Reference Circuit

3.3.3.2 RESET control Timing

Figure 3-10 Reset Control Timing

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Note:

RESET is a sensitive signal, so it is recommended to add an avoid debouncing capacitor close

to the module. In case of PCB layout, the RESET signal lines should keep away from the RF

interference and protected by Ground. Also, the RESET signal lines shall neither near the PCB

edge nor route on the surface planes( avoid module reset caused by ESD problems).

3.4 USB Interface

The NL668-AM module supports USB2.0 and is compatible with USB High-Speed (480Mbits/s) and USB

Full-Speed (12Mbits/s). Refer to “Universal Serial Bus Specification 2.0” for the timing and electrical

characteristics of the NL668-AM module USB bus.

3.4.1 USB interface definition

Pin name I/O Pin Description

USB_DM I/O 70

USB_DP I/O 69

USB_VBUS PI 71

Table 3-9 USB Interface Definition

At present, USB just support USB_VBUS detect.

For more information about the USB 2.0 specification, please refer to http://www.usb.org/home

Note:

Since the module supports USB 2.0 High-Speed, TVS tube equivalent capacitance on the

USB_DM/DP differential signal cable is required to be less than 1pF, and a 0.5pF capacitance

TVS is recommended.

Connect a 0 ohm resistor to USB_DM / DP differential line to help analyze problems.

USB_DM and USB_DP are high-speed differential signal cables, can achieve the maximum

transmission rate of 480Mbits/s, and must follow the rules below in PCB Layout:

USB differential data bus ( D+ )

USB differential data bus ( D- )

USB_DET

 USB_DM and USB_DP signal cable’s control differential impedance is 90 ohm

 USB_DM and USB_DP signal cables shall be parallel and equal in length, and avoid the

right-angle route;

 USB_DM and USB_DP signal cables are routed on the signal layer closest to the ground layer,

and the cables shall be grounded;

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3.5 USIM Interface

NL668-AM module has built-in USIM card interface, and supports 1.8V and 3.0V SIM card.

3.5.1 USIM pin

USIM pin is shown in the following table:

Pin name I/O Pin Description

USIM_DATA I/O 15 USIM/SIM DATA

USIM_CLK O 16 Clock Signal

USIM_RESET O 17 RESET Signal

USIM_VDD O 14 USIM/SIM Power

USIM_PRESENCE I 13 Detect USIM/SIM card for Hot-swap

Table 3-10 SIM Card Pin

3.5.2 USIM interface circuit

3.5.2.1 SIM card slot with detection signal

USIM/SIM design requires the use of SIM card slot (Fibocom recommend: SIM016-8P-220P). We

recommend using hot plug slot with SIM_DECTECT function.

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Figure 3-11 SIM Card Slot Diagram SIM016-8P-220P

Figure 3-12 USIM/SIM Interface with Detection Signal Reference Design

Principles of SIM card slot with detection signal are as follows:

SIM card is insert, USIM_PRESENCE pin is high level

SIM card is no insert, USIM_PRESENCE pin is low level

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3.5.2.2 SIM card slot without detection signal

SIM card slot without detection signal, and USIM_ PRESENCE pin remains floating.

Figure 3-13 USIM/SIM Interface without Detection Signal Reference Design Diagram

3.5.3 USIM hot plug

NL668-AM SIM card supports hot plug function. It determines the insertion and removal of SIM card on

the slot by detecting the USIM_ PRESENCE pin state to support hot plug function.

The SIM card hot plug function can be configured by the “AT+MSMPD” command, and the AT commands

are shown in the following table:

AT command

AT+MSMPD=1 Enabled

AT+MSMPD=0 Disabled

SIM card hot plug

Function description

detection

Default, SIM card hot plug detection is enabled

The module detects whether the SIM card is inserted

through the USIM_PRESENCE pin state

SIM card hot plug detection function is disabled

The module reads the SIM card when the device starts,

and does not detect the USIM_PRESENCE state

Table 3-11SIM Card Hot Plug Function Configured AT Commands

After enabled the hot plug detection function of the SIM card, when USIM_PRESENCE is in high level,

the module will detect the SIM card insertion and then execute the initialization program of the SIM card.

After reading the SIM card information, the module will register network. When the USIM_PRESENCE is

in low level, the module detects that the SIM card is removed, then it will not read the SIM card.

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Note:

The USIM_PRESENCE is in active high by default, and can be switched to active low by AT

command.

AT command Function description

AT+GTSET=”SIMPHASE”,1 Default ,high level detect

AT+GTSET=”SIMPHASE”,0 Low level detect

Table 3-12 USIM_PRESENCE

Effective Level Switched AT command

3.5.4 USIM design requirements

SIM card circuit design shall meet EMC standards and ESD requirements, and at the same time, shall

improve anti-interference ability to ensure that the SIM card can work stably. The design needs to strictly

observe the following rules:

 SIM card slot is placed as close to the module as possible, away from the RF antenna, DCDC power,

clock signal lines and other strong interference sources;

 Adopt the SIM card slot with metal shield shell to improve anti-interference ability;

 The length of cable from the module to the SIM card slot shall not exceed 100mm. Longer cable

reduces signal quality.

 USIM_CLK and USIM_DATA signals are ground isolated to avoid mutual interference. If it is difficult

to do so, SIM signal needs to be ground protected as a set;

 The filter capacitor and ESD device of SIM card signal cable are placed close to the SIM card slot.

Select 22 ~ 33pF capacitor for ESD device equivalent capacitor.

3.6 UART Interface

3.6.1 UART interface definition

NL668-AM module has two serial interfaces: the main serial interface and debug serial ports. The

following describes the main features of these two serial ports:

The main serial ports supports 4800bps, 9600bps, 19200bps, 38400bps, 57600bps, 115200bps,

230400bps, baud rate. The default baud rate is 115200bps, used for data transmission and AT command

transmission.

Debug serial port supports 115200bps baud rate for FIBOCOM debug.

The following table describes the main serial port pin.

Pin name I/O Pin Description

RI O 62 Ring indicator

DCD O 63 Data carrier detection

CTS I 64 Clear to send

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Pin name I/O Pin Description

RTS O 65 Request to send

DTR I 66 Sleep mode control

TXD O 67 Module Transmit data

RXD I 68 Module Receive data

Table 3-13 Main Serial Port Pin

The following table describes the debug serial interface pin.

Pin name I/O Pin Description

DBG_RXD

DBG_TXD

I 11 Module Receive data

O 12 Module Transmit data

Table 3-14 Debug Serial Port Pin

3.6.2 UART port application

The serial port level of NL668-AM LCC module is 1.8V. If the level of the client host system is 3.3V or

other, a level

following figure shows the reference circuit design using level

translate

shall be added to the serial port connection between the module and the host. The

translate

chip:

Figure 3-14 UART Level Translate Reference Circuit 1

Another level

part can refer to that in the solid line part, but pay attention to the connection direction.

FIBOCOM NL668-AM Hardware User Manual Page 35 of 62

translate

circuit is shown below. The input and output circuit design in the following dashed

Page 36

Figure 3-15 UART Level Translate Reference Circuit 2

Note:

This level translate circuit is not suitable for applications with baud rates above 460Kbps.

3.7 Status Indicator

NL668-AM provides three network indication pins (Pin 5 is network status indicator by default, AT

commands AT+LEDCFG can switch to pin 6 or pin 61).

PIN Name I/O PIN Num. Description

NET_MODE O 5 Network status indicator

NET_STATUS O 6 Reserved

STATUS O 61 Reserved

Table 3-15 Network Indication pins

3.7.1 NET_MODE Signal

NL668-AM module network indicator status description.

Mode NET_MODE Description

No SIM card

FIBOCOM NL668-AM Hardware User Manual Page 36 of 62

Flash (600ms High/600ms Low)

Slow flash (75ms Low /3000ms High) Standby

Request SIM PIN

Registering network (T<15S)

Page 37

Mode NET_MODE Description

4 Low Voice call

NL668-AM NET_MODE interface reference circuit is as shown below.

Speed flash (75ms Low /75ms High) Data link established

Table 3-16 Network Indicator Status Description

Figure 3-16 NET_MODE Reference Design Diagram

3.8 Low Power Mode

3.8.1 Flight mode

W_DISABLE# Pin Description:

Pin name

W_DISABLE# I

NL668-AM supports two ways to enter the flight mode:

Hardware I/O interface button

control

I/O Pin

Table 3-17 W_DISABLE# Pin Description

Description

Module flight mode control

First to transmit the “AT+WDISABLEEN=1”to enable the

W_DISABLE# function.

Pull high or float (pull high by default)the W_DISABLE# signal

to enter the normal mode, pull low it to enter the flight mode.

FIBOCOM NL668-AM Hardware User Manual Page 37 of 62

AT command control

AT+CFUN=0,0--enter the flight mode

AT+CFUN=1,0--enter the normal mode

Table 3-18 Module enter Fly Mode

Page 38

3.8.2 Sleep Mode

3.8.2.1 USB Application ( nonsupport USB Suspend, support VBUS）

If the host does not support the USB Suspend function, the module can enter sleep mode by

disconnecting USB_VBUS from the external control circuit:

Sleep:

Sent AT+GTLPMMODE=1,X command to set the WAKEUP_IN control enter the sleep mode. Reset the

module become effective. ( X=0, high level active to sleep; X=1, low level active to sleep)

AT+CSCLK = 1 command to enable sleep function.

AT+GTUSBSLEEPEN=1,0 command to set USB sleep mode

To draw out the USB line or disable the USB HUB controller to enter the sleep.

Wake up:

Wake up the module by plugging in the USB cable or enable the USB HUB controller.

3.8.2.2 USB application (nonsupport USB Suspend, nonsupport VBUS)

If the host does not supports USB Suspend and does not support VBUS function, the module can enter

sleep mode by disconnecting USB_VBUS from the external control circuit:

Sleep:

Sent AT+GTLPMMODE=1,X command to set the WAKEUP_IN control enter the sleep mode. Reset the

module become effective. ( X=0,high level active to sleep; X=1, low level active to sleep)

AT+CSCLK = 1 command to enable sleep function.

Use AT+GTUSBDETECTEN=1 command to enable the USB software detection

AT+GTUSBSLEEPEN=1,0 command to set USB sleep mode

To draw out the USB line or disable the USB HUB controller to enter the sleep.

Wake up:

Wake up the module by plugging in the USB cable or enable the USB HUB controller.

3.8.2.3 USB application (Supports USB Suspend)

If the host supports USB Suspend/Resume. Setting the USB into sleep by Linux.

Sleep:

Sent AT+GTLPMMODE=1,X command to set the WAKEUP_IN control enter the sleep mode. Reset the

module become effective. ( X=0,high level active to sleep; X=1,low level active to sleep)

AT+CSCLK = 1 command to enable sleep function.

AT+GTUSBSLEEPEN=0,0 command to set USB sleep mode

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In Linux environment, set the USB level and control to AUTO. Standing the module and host about 2

seconds, that will be in suspend mode.

Wake up:

Any operation on USB will wake up the module from sleep.

3.8.2.4 UART application ( WAKEUP_IN level control )

When host and NL668 module has connected through UART, use the following steps to make the module

enter sleep mode:

Sent AT+GTLPMMODE=1,X command to set the WAKEUP_IN control enter the sleep mode. Reset the

module become effective. ( X=0,high level active to sleep; X=1, low level active to sleep)

AT+CSCLK = 1 command to enable sleep function.

AT+GTUSBSLEEPEN=2,X command to disable USB function (X is an arbitrary value)

Wake up:

Wake up the module by set a signal contrary with sleep on WAKEUP_IN line.( X=0,low level active to be

recall;X=1,high level active to be recall)

3.8.2.5 UART application ( DTR level control )

When host and NL668 module has connected through UART, use the following steps to make the module

enter sleep mode:

Sent AT+GTLPMMODE=2,X command to set the DTR control enter the sleep mode. Reset the module

become effective. ( X=0, high level active to sleep; X=1, low level active to sleep)

AT+CSCLK = 1 command to enable sleep function.

AT+GTUSBSLEEPEN=2,X command to disable USB function (X is an arbitrary value)

Wake up the module by set a signal contrary with sleep on DTR line.( X=0, low level active to be recall;

X=1, high level active to be recall).

3.8.2.6 ATS24 Command

Set the module into sleep by ATS24 command . use the following steps:

Sleep:

Sent AT+GTLPMMODE=0

AT+GTUSBSLEEPEN=2,X command to disable USB function (X is an arbitrary value without 0)

ATS24=X command to into sleep after X seconds.(X is not zero)

Wake up:

Wake up the module by send the AT command fast.

Note:

Since the level of UART sleep power is different, power dissipation when use ATS24 command

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to enter sleep mode is higher than Pin control to enter sleep mode.

The ATS24 function cannot ensure the module must be in sleep after X seconds, if the timer over

and the module cant into sleep. It will try again.

If you want to use the RI signal to represent the state of the module, please refer to the

AT+GTWAKE command in the AT manual.

3.9 Digital audio interface PCM

NL668-AM provides a PCM interface for communication with digital audio devices such as an external

CODEC. Digital audio interface including PCM_CLK, PCM_SYNC, and PCM_IN / PCM_OUT.

3.9.1 Support model

NUM. Product model Description

1 NL668-AM-00 support

2 NL668-AM-01 support

Table 3-19 Support model

3.9.2 PCM interface definition

PIN Name I/O PIN Num. Description

PCM_IN I 24 PCM Input

PCM_OUT O 25 PCM Output

PCM_SYNC I/O 26 PCM Synchronous Signal

PCM_CLK I/O 27 PCM CLK

Table 3-20 PCM Interface Definition

3.9.3 PCM interface description

Single Name

PCM_CLK 2.048MHz

PCM_OUT - - PCM Output

PCM_IN - - PCM Input

PCM_SYNC 8KHz BURST

Freq.

Duty

Cycle

50%

Coded

Format

16bit

Liner

mono

Operating

Mode

Module

serves as the

master that

supports

PCM slave

Description

PCM CLK

PCM Synchronous Signal

(Falling edge sampling)

Table 3-21 PCM Interface Description

NL668-AM adopts the above configuration by default, if you need to make adjustment, please contact our

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technical support.

3.9.4 PCM signal description

NL668-AM main chip support PCM signal adopts domestic mainstream Europe E1 standard. PCM_CLK

is a 2.048MHz clock in 16bit linear format encoding. PCM_SYNC is a 8kHz burst (488nS).

Figure 3-17 PCM_SYNC Timing

Figure 3-18 PCM_CODEC to NL668-AM Timing

Figure 3-19 NL668-AM to PCM_CODEC Timing

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Figure 3-20 CODEC Timing Parameters

3.10 ADC function

NL668-AM support the 2 channels ADC interface. Use AT+TADC=0 to read the value on the ADC0

interface. Use AT+TADC=1 to read the value on the ADC1 interface. The ADC range is 0.3V-VBAT_BB.

PIN Name I/O PIN NUM. Description

ADC0 I

ADC1 I

45 Analog to digital converter interface 0

44 Analog to digital converter interface 1

Table 3-22 ADC Interface

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4 RF Interface

4.1 NL668-AM Operating Frequency

Operating Band Description Mode Tx (MHz) Rx (MHz)

Band 2 PCS 1900MHz LTE FDD/WCDMA 1850- 1910 1930 - 1990

Band 4 AWS-1 1700 LTE FDD/WCDMA 1710 - 1755 2110 - 2155

Band 5 CLR 850MHz LTE FDD/WCDMA 824 - 849 869 - 894

Band 12

Band 13

Band 17

Band 66

Band 71 US 600 LTE FDD 663-698 617-652

Lower SMH blocks

A/B/C 700

Lower SMH blocks

A/B/C 700

Lower SMH

(Blocks B–C)

Extended AWS-1

(Blocks A–I)

Table 4-1Operating Frequency

LTE FDD 699-716 729-746

LTE FDD 777-787 746-756

LTE FDD 704-716 734-746

LTE FDD 1710-1780 2110 - 2200

4.2 RF Output Power of NL668-AM

The RF output power of NL668-AM is shown in the following table.

Mode Band Tx Power(dBm) Note

Band II 23.5±1

WCDMA

Band IV 23.5±1

Band V 23.5±1

Band 2 23±1 10MHz Bandwidth, 1 RB

Band 4 23±1 10MHz Bandwidth, 1 RB

Band 5 23±1 10MHz Bandwidth, 1 RB

Band 12 23±1 10MHz Bandwidth, 1 RB

LTE FDD

Band 13 23±1 10MHz Bandwidth, 1 RB

Band 17 23±1 10MHz Bandwidth, 1 RB

Band 66 23±1 10MHz Bandwidth, 1 RB

Band 71 23±1 10MHz Bandwidth, 1 RB

Table 4-2 RF Output Power

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4.3 RF Receiving Sensitivity of NL668-AM

Mode Band

Band II -109 NA BER<0.1%

WCDMA

LTE FDD

Band IV -109.5 NA BER<0.1%

Band V -111 NA BER<0.1%

Band 2 -97.8 -98.5 10MHz Band width

Band 4 -97.8 -98 10MHz Band width

Band 5 -99 -100 10MHz Band width

Band 12 -98 -99 10MHz Band width

Band 13 -97 -99 10MHz Band width

Band 17 -98 -98 10MHz Band width

Band 66 -97.8 -98 10MHz Band width

Band 71 -98 -99 10MHz Band width

Rx Sensitivity(dBm)

PRX Typ.

Rx Sensitivity(dBm)

DRX Typ.

Note

Table 4-3 RF Receiving Sensitivity

Note:

The sensitivity in the above table is the result of test conducted with the main and diversity dual

antenna. If only the main antenna is used (without the diversity antenna), the sensitivity of each

band of LTE will be reduced by about 3dBm.

4.4 GNSS Receiver

4.4.1 Basic description

The NL668-AM module supports the GPS/GLONASS/BeiDou functions using Qualcomm Gen8

technology.

Description Condition Typ.

GNSS fixing 68mA

Current consumption

GNSS tracking

（AT+CFUN=0）

Standby

68mA

33mA

Cold start

TTFF GNSS

Warm start

FIBOCOM NL668-AM Hardware User Manual Page 44 of 62

40s

37s

Page 45

Description Condition Typ.

-147dbm

-158dbm

38.5dB-HZ

Sensitivity

Hot Start

fixing

tracking

CN0 GNSS Signal@-130dBm

Positional

CEP GNSS Signal @-130dBm <4m

Accuracy

Table 4-4 GNSS Receiver

Note:

The current in above table test with USB plug in.

4.5 RF PCB Design

4.5.1 Antenna RF connector

The NL668-AM three-way antenna adopts the pad-out way. It is recommended that clients use the

U.FL-R-SMT-1 antenna connector and the matching RF adapter cable.

Antenna is a sensitive device, susceptible to the external environment. For example, the location of the

antenna, the space it occupies, and the surrounding ground all may affect antenna performance. In

addition, the RF cable connecting the antenna, and the location of the fixed antenna also may affect the

performance of the antenna.

Figure 4-1 is the reference circuit design for the main and diversity antenna. These matches need to be

placed close to the antenna:

MAIN

Antenna

Module

ANT_MAIN

ANT_DIV

2nH

DIV

Antenna

Figure 4-1RF Reference Circuit Design

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Figure 4-2 shows the reference circuit design for the GNSS antenna. These matches need to be placed

close to the antenna:

Figure 4-2 GNSS RF Reference Circuit

 Make sure the characteristic impedance of the transmission cable is 50 ohms.

 Since the antenna cable loss is less than 0.3dB, keep the PCB cable as short as possible.

 Keep the PCB LAYOUT as straight as possible, and reduce holes on the route to another layer; also

avoid right-angle and acute-angle wiring.

 PCB cable should have a good reference ground to avoid other signal cable near the antenna.

 Recommend a complete ground level, and use this complete ground level as a reference ground.

The ground around the antenna must be connected to the main ground through the holes placed near the

edge of the ground and tracking the cable route.

Note:

Refer to the document《FIBOCOM_RF Antenna Application Design Instruction》for specific

design

4.6 Antenna Design

1) Antenna efficiency

Antenna efficiency is the ratio of antenna input power to emissivity. Due to the antenna return loss,

material loss, and coupling loss, the radiated power is always lower than the input power. Recommend>

40% (-4dB).

2) S11 or VSWR

S11 shows that the matching degree of the antenna’s 50 ohm impedance, to a certain extent, affects the

antenna efficiency. VSWR test methods can be used to measure this parameter. Recommend S11

<-10dB.

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3) Polarization

Polarization is the rotation direction of the electric field in the maximum radiation direction of the antenna.

It is recommended to use linear polarization.

4) Radiation pattern

Radiation pattern refers to the antenna’s electromagnetic field strength in the far field in all directions.

Half-wave dipole antenna is the most suitable terminal antenna. For built-in antenna, PIFA antennas or

IFA antennas are recommended:

Antenna area: 6mm high*10mm wide*100mm long.

Antenna radiation direction: Omni_directional.

5) Gain and directivity

Antenna directivity refers to the electromagnetic field strength of electromagnetic wave in all directions.

Gain is a collection of antenna benefits and antenna directivity.

Recommended antenna gain ≤2.5dBi.

6) Interference

In addition to the antenna performance, other interferences on the PCB also may affect the performance

of the module. In order to ensure the high performance of the module, interference must be controlled.

Suggestions: For example, LCD, CPU, FPC cable, audio circuit, power supply should be as far as

possible away from the antenna, and make the appropriate isolation and shielding, or filtering on the path.

7) Antenna index requirements

NL668-AM module main antenna requirements

Frequency range It must use the most suitable antenna to adapt to the relevant frequency band

WCDMA band II(1900) : 170 MHz

Bandwidth (WCDMA)

WCDMA band IV(1700) :170 MHz

WCDMA band V(850) : 70 MHz

LTE band 2(1900): 140 MHz

LTE Band 4(1700): 445 MHz

LTE Band 5(850): 70 MHz

LTE Band 12(700): 47 MHz

Bandwidth (LTE)

LTE band 17(700): 42 MHz

LTE band 13(700): 41 MHz

LTE Band 66(1700): 470MHz

LTE band 71(600): 81MHz

Impedance 50 ohms

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NL668-AM module main antenna requirements

Input power > 23dBm average power WCDMA & LTE

Standing wave ratio

recommended

GNSS

≤ 2:1

Frequency range: 1559MHz~1607MHz

Polarization type: right-circular or linear polarization

VSWR:：< 2(Type)

Passive antenna gain:> 0dBi

Table 4-5 Main Antenna Requirement

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5 Electrical Characteristics

5.1 Limiting voltage range

The limiting voltage range refers to the power voltage of the module and the maximum voltage range that

the digital and analog input/output interfaces can withstand.

The voltage range of NL668-AM is shown in the following table.

Parameter Description Min Typ Max Unit

VBAT Power supply -0.3 - 4.7 V

GPIO

Power supply voltage of

-0.3 - 2.0 V

digital I/O

Table 5-1 Voltage Range

5.2 Environment temperature range

NL668-AM module is recommended to operate at -30~+75℃ ambient. It is recommended that the

application uses temperature control measures under harsh environmental conditions. At the same time,

the limited operating temperature range of the module should be provided. Under these temperature

conditions, some RF parameters may exceed the limit. It is recommended that the module application

terminal be stored in certain temperature conditions. Modules outside this range may not operate or may

be damaged.

Temperature Min Typ Max Unit

Operating temperature -30 25 75 ℃

Limited operating temperature -40 85 ℃

Storage temperature -40 85 ℃

Table 5-2Environment Temperature Range

5.3 Electrical characteristics of the interface in operating status

VL: logic low level;

VH: logic high level;

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VL VH

Signal

Min Max Min Max

Digital input -0.3 0.6 1.2 2.0 V

Digital output - 0.45 1.35 - V

Parameter I/O Min Typ Max Unit

VBAT I 3.3 3.8 4.3 V

SIM_VDD O 1.7/2.75 1.8/2.85 1.9/2.95 V

Table 5-3 Electrical Characteristics of the Interface in Operating Status

Unit

5.4 Environmental reliability requirements

Test items Test conditions

Low temperature storage test Temperature -40℃±3℃, 24 hours in shutdown state

High temperature storage test Temperature +85℃±3℃, 24 hours in shutdown state

In shutdown state, 0.5 hour at -40℃ and +85℃ environment

Temperature shock test

High temperature and humidity

test

Low temperature operating test Temperature -30℃±3℃, 24 hours in operating state

High temperature operating test Temperature +75℃±3℃, 24 hours in operating state

Vibration test

respectively, the temperature conversion time <3min, for 24 cycles

Temperature +85℃±3℃, humidity 90 ~ 95% RH, 24 hours in

shutdown state

Conduct vibration test according to the requirements shown in the

table below:

Frequency Random vibration ASD

(Acceleration Spectral Density)

5~20Hz 0.96m2/s3

20~500Hz 0.96m2/s3(20Hz), other

-3dB/octave

Connector life test 30 times of insertion/removal for RF antenna interface cable

Table 5-4 Environmental Reliability Requirements

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5.5 ESD characteristics

NL668-AM is a consumer product. Although the design of the module has considered the ESD issue and

provided ESD protection, the ESD issue may occur in the transport and secondary development, so

developers should consider ESD protection for the final product. In addition to considering anti-static

treatment for packaging, please refer to recommended circuit for interface design in the document for

client’s application.

Refer to the following table for the ESD allowable discharge range of the NL668-AM module.

Part Air discharge Contact discharge

VBAT,GND ±10KV ±5KV

Antenna interface ±8KV ±4KV

Other interface ±1KV ±0.5KV

Table 5-5 ESD Allowable Discharge Range

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6 Structure Specification

6.1 Product Appearance

The product appearance for NL668-AM module is shown in Figure 6-1 and 6-2:

Figure 6-1Module Product Appearance (Top)

Figure 6-2 Module Product Appearance (Bottom)

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6.2 Dimension of Structure

The structural dimension of the NL668-AM module is shown in Figure 6-3:

Figure 6-3 Dimension of Structure (Unit: mm)

6.3 SMT Patch

For module stencil design, please refer to FIBOCOM_ NL668 LCC SMT Application Design Instruction.

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Appendix A Terms and Acronyms

Terms Description

AMR Adaptive Multi-rate

BPS Bits Per Second

CS Coding Scheme

DRX Discontinuous Reception

EGSM Extended GSM900 Band

FDD Frequency Division Duplexing

GMSK Gaussian Minimum Shift Keying

GSM Global System for Mobile Communications

HSDPA High Speed Down Link Packet Access

IMEI International Mobile Equipment Identity

Imax Maximum Load Current

LED Light Emitting Diode

LSB Least Significant Bit

LTE Long Term Evolution

SCell Secondary Cell for CA

ME Mobile Equipment

MS Mobile Station

MT Mobile Terminated

PCB Printed Circuit Board

PDU Protocol Data Unit

PSK Phase Shift Keying

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Terms Description

QAM Quadrature Amplitude Modulation

QPSK Quadrature Phase Shift Keying

RF Radio Frequency

RHCP Right Hand Circularly Polarized RMS

RMS Root Mean Square

RTC Real Time Clock

Rx Receive

SMS Short Message Service

TDMA Time Division Multiple Access

TE Terminal Equipment

TX Transmitting Direction

TDD Time Division Duplexing

UART Universal Asynchronous Receiver & Transmitter

UMTS Universal Mobile Telecommunications System

URC Unsolicited Result Code

(U)SIM (Universal) Subscriber Identity Module

USSD Unstructured Supplementary Service Data

Maximum Voltage Value

max

Normal Voltage Value

norm

Minimum Voltage Value

min

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Maximum Input High Level Voltage Value

IHmax

Minimum Input High Level Voltage Value

IHmin

Maximum Input Low Level Voltage Value

ILmax

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Terms Description

Minimum Input Low Level Voltage Value

ILmin

Absolute Maximum Input Voltage Value

Imax

Absolute Minimum Input Voltage Value

Imin

Maximum Output High Level Voltage Value

OHmax

Minimum Output High Level Voltage Value

OHmin

Maximum Output Low Level Voltage Value

OLmax

Minimum Output Low Level Voltage Value

OLmin

VSWR Voltage Standing Wave Ratio

WCDMA Wideband Code Division Multiple Access

Table A-0-1 Terms and Acronyms

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Appendix B ADP & MiniPCIe RF ports trace

1. NL668-AM MiniPCIe

a) Primary Antenna

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b) Diversity Antenna

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c) GNSS Antenna

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2. NL668-AM ADP

a) Primary Antenna

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b) Diversity Antenna

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c) GNSS Antenna

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